Love the above cute reminders! :) 

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

     The truth is that I was thinking about what it means to possess an education. Well education involves learning, we read, we learn, and if we are lucky enough, we then learn some more. And in the process of claiming our education, we merely learn that we know nothing. As I continue to learn, I am convinced of this idea. The more we learn, the less we do know, simply because learning is endless. Yet, the importance of education could not be stressed enough. 

​     Education is not just about studying and learning about the field of education. Education involves every subject area from Art, dance, languages, sports, science, etcetera. Education involves all topics. The beauty of the K - 12 level is the fact that you get to see how students learn and grow through the trials and tribulations that arrive with growing up, or becoming mature. Learning is more than the subject matter, it is also about developing good social skills. This is what learning is all about, which is why many of the large organizations that are supporting education initiatives such as the World Bank, Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development, The World Trade Organization, United Nations, and other large institutions contributing to the Global development of Education, support life long learning skills. More and more organizations have, and are recognizing the benefits of life long learning skills. 

​     These are essential for job markets, or any career pathways students desire to take. So whilst we are teaching and learning, we must never diminish the purpose that we serve, because in a sense we are educating the future, the leaders, and the next care takers of the World, our Earth, and future populations. We can never de-emphasize what it means to engage in learning, and we can never de-emphasize what it means to attain essential life skills, and interactions with others. These could be learned from helping the elderly or disabled, helping friends with homework, or organizing your room daily to contribute to organizational skills, and even creativity.

Dedication: The words of this human being are dedicated to young minds, may you learn the beauty of all this life has to offer. My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :) 

Notes: These thoughts were originally hand - written on September 29th, 2017.
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As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect. 

     The truth is that I am thinking about the many voices that continue to arise. Voices of obstructionists, that purposely sway the public to obstruct the Trump administration to operate in full swing. Now I'm not saying that people are not entitled to their voices, because they are. However, we cannot keep on saying: if you voted for Trump this will happen or that will happen... or to keep going to the point of regret. Because the fact is that President Trump is President. And believe me when I say this, I  also don't agree with everything that he has to say or does. There are areas that I can agree, and there are areas that cannot agree. 

     The issue of the US/Mexico border wall is one that I have adamantly disagreed with, before and ever since the day President Trump has taken office. I am continuously saying that there has to be other ways of looking at this issue. As we see the devastating Earthquakes upon the Mexican people, as neighbours we are obliged to help, and gladly to say this was assistance was given. So we can lend a hand, but we must also borrow a hand. This is what reciprocal relations are all about. Now I'm not saying that we have to rely on others or become dependant upon them. I am saying that neighbourly relations must be maintained. What happens at borders becomes particularly blurry because the border lines are in fact adjoining points of two countries. This is true of any countries that are joined together through the lines of borders. So the irony here is that even though there is a border that is to divide nations, the border is also a meeting point for two (in this case) nations. What happens at these borders is the responsibility of both countries.

     Even if border walls were built, will trade stop? Will there be prevention or crime, cartels, or people escaping harsh circumstances? How will this affect families as well? The border wall is something that I do continue to oppose, along with the recent announcement of the DACA program. I continue to support everyone impacted with this announcement, and hope that pathways are left open for Dreamers to dream the American Dream. 

    So there are parts of opposition, I'm sure that there  will be many more. But there are also parts that we can agree upon. Leadership is not perfection, if anyone ever said this, I would blatantly say that you are wrong, but then again isn't this what politics is all about? The bringing together of a plethora of ideas, for the purposes of contributing to societal good? Some of these ideas will be acceptable, some might not. This is also what leadership is about. We can think about the recent announcement of tax reform. This is where we saw a President confidently announcing the new measures. Here we can see how business expertise is revealing itself. Anything and everything that you learn eventually reveals itself as you. 

     This is in essence what learning is all about. We have a ton of knowledge, but until that knowledge is not put into any practice is does not serve a purpose. So how do we navigate knowledge, or what we know from becoming stale? We have to use what we know and apply this to our daily living, make what you know a part of daily life experience. Even when we are in a period of waiting, this period should not be a time of frustration, but really a time of preparation. The waiting is also a testing of personal character, and even patience. In this sense the same can be said of leadership. 

     We can read a ton of literature on the topic, but it is through the act of leading that we learn. Of course, the larger the role of the leader, the greater the positives or negatives there are, will leave an impression upon those that are served. So there has to be a certain amount of care, which is why there are advisors in place. However, the flaw or imperfection are derived from the fact that we are human. Maybe as a society we have to learn how to be more forgiving? Forgiveness is about not letting whatever hurt you, control you. Lets look at this thought through the lens of a family.

     A family is a micro - cosm of a collective. A family shares joy's, happiness, sadness, grief, and a family should share one another's mistakes together. When we share each others mistakes, it is not to cover up or say that this or that is ok. It is to say and acknowledge that there were mistakes, and as a family we will work through these together. This philosophy reveals the idea of not giving up on each other. 

     In the same sense the example of the microcosm of a family can be applied to that at the level of a country, society, and even a nation. We see this when a nation grieves together, and when a nation shares happiness together, but what about the concept of forgiveness? How about a nation sharing forgiveness? There are limits, and there are boundaries, but it is the common values that bind a nation together that must be enacted, especially at these points. The values remind us of what is important to us all. In this case the nation of America. The good of the people that are contained in the nation of America. The good of America with neighbours and along the borders. The good of America at the International level to build effective relations, that assist and support others, as well as support the nation of America.

Dedication: The words of this human being are dedicated to all human beings, let us share love, let us also share forgiveness. My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :) 

​Notes: These thoughts were originally hand - written on September 28th, 2017.
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As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

    The truth is that we are hearing of the many protests that are happening through the National Football League (NFL). Some players are standing, sitting, kneeling, or some are even remaining in locker rooms, refusing to be present when the anthem is being played and the American Flag is raised. These protests have been on-going, rooted from the Colin Kaepernick silent kneeling.  The most recent protests and criticism were sparked through the comments that President Trump made at his speech in Alabama, where he cited the dis-respect for the American flag by the NFL players. The comments received criticism  from NFL and NBA team, with a response from LeBron James.

​     So I heard and I listened and thought what a mess. In fact my very thoughts became a mess. I wasn't sure where and how to comment. However, the issue demands attention, and the urgency to write became once more. Before I write what I think - I will respond to both President Trump and LeBron James. The use of the vulgar language by both is absolutely unacceptable in the public sphere. For both, words were broadcast, or in the news media at the national and eventually disseminated to the international level. Whether we choose to like what these two very prominent figures stand for - we have to remember that they are people of influence. Young minds are listening, rather than delivering a negative impression, let us think how we can deliver a message of concern without vulgar language. So here are my points:

  *There is a deep irony that President Trump would call out the NFL protestors as compared to his approach to the White Supremacist, KKK and Neo - Nazi protests that took place. The difference in his responses allow us to think and even assume that there are personal prejudices that are being projected by President Trump.

   *I think about the many individuals that have died for America, so that everyone else could live and breathe free, for the very people who are receiving a prestigious wage. We have to think, how protests of kneeling against the flag might be affecting families who have already lost so much, not to mention the veterans who might be suffering from physical and mental illness.

   *The protest that took place in the U.K. NFL game yesterday were particularly disappointing. When an American  team is abroad they are representing their team, as well as their country. We have to think: what kind of message are we conveying at the international level?

   *The issue of race, and equity is one that deserves attention, and demands a conversation. We are living in the 21st century where there have been so many societal shifts, points pf progress, processes of de-colonization, the black lives movement, and also many other protests that take place. We have to remember that many protests are funded by rich and wealthy democrats, that act as obstructionist for the new administration.

   *I can't speak for every one, but I do know that for my visits to the USA, I have felt proud of a nation, and also felt a deep sense of belonging.   

  To Conclude my thoughts I don't support the kneeling of the flag at the NFL games. I also don't support how President Trump handled the matter. I also do believe that sports have the capability to impart and influence an opinion, but I also do know that many fans go to watch a game as part of a leisurely activity, or to support their team. Rather than kneeling or sitting out during the playing of the anthem, I think that there needs to be a conversation, or dialogue between the NFL team owners and their players, about what is deemed acceptable or not. Some owners support the protests and some do not. The question is complex, nevertheless deserves a discussion.

   We have seen so much damages to land, if not anything I think that this is a time where there is much needed solidarity and unity at the national and international level from the NFL.

     At the deeper level
Lets think about our flag. What is a American flag? It is a beautiful piece of cloth that is stitched together. If anyone has had a chance to look at the stitched flag closely it is really quite beautiful. Alone a flag is a symbol for a nation, in this case, symbolizing America. What we think, act, and how we behave towards the flag  is derived through the meaning that we assign to it. And yes these meanings are partly driven from our experiences of being human. We can think of allies, how do they view the flag? We can think of enemies, how do they view the flag?

With the flag arrives the singing of the anthem, and quite frankly I could not be more prouder to stand, sit, or even kneel with one knee or two for the flag. There are injustices, issues of inequality that have to be dealt with and talked about. But remind yourselves why you are standing, or even the privilege of playing for the NFL? It is a privilege and an honor earned. The least anyone can do is to take a moment to remember those who have and are sacrificing so much, and the very reason why America is the land of the brave and free. 

​Dedication: The words of this human being are dedicated to all who serve, and continue to serve and sacrifice for the nation of America. My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :)

Notes: These thoughts were originally hand - written on September 24th 2017.
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Related Reading
​​A Vision: United. 
​A Step Back.
​The Diplomatic Cloth
Reflection: World Solidarity. 
​

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

     This week we learned from a wide array of opinions, and dialogue that were shared at the United Nations General Assembly. This event exemplifies that people from diverse backgrounds, political affiliations, or administrations can gather in a common space to share views, ideas and opinions. What united everyone was the common space, the event of the UNGA. We can take this example to that of a classroom, especially that of a university or college setting. Individuals should be able to gather to project ideas and opinions, that matter to them without feeling condemned, or a sense of exclusion. 

    I was also happy to share my opinions and thoughts which I have included below. The urgency and the safeguarding of positive developments that serve the vision and mission of peace, and prosperity have to be safe guarded. Which is why I called for solidarity, at national and International levels. 
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Global Goals vs. Policy 

Prosperity vs. Natural / Humanitarian Disasters

The Urgency for Solidarity 

Nuclear Concerns 

Readings I Shared
A Good Read - Remarks at the United Nations Security Council Session on Nuclear Non-Proliferation.

Remarks to the security council ministerial meeting on the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. 
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Please also refer to the related thought posts that are shown at the beginning of this post, for more details that are linked to my tweets.
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​     The work of peace and prosperity is never done. This post might conclude my thoughts related to the UNGA for now, but we are left to reflect upon the many diverse opinions and ideas, in the hope that countries will join the vision for peace and prosperity, through solidarity. 

My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :) 

Notes:
These thoughts were originally hand - written on September 23rd, 2017.
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Related Reading
​​A Vision: United. 
​A Step Back.
​The Diplomatic Cloth

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

     This week has been an eventful week, and one that should be for reflection as well. It was President Trump's first speech at the United Nations General Assembly. We must think deep about the words that he said, particularly as they relate to taking care and protecting America First. We also need to think about the use of nuclear weapons. As we heard from Secretary of State's remarks about nuclear non - proliferation. I would like to take a moment to commend Tillerson's remarks. With the use of America's own history as well as providing the example of nations such as  Belarus, Kazakhstan, South Africa, and Ukraine, who decided to eliminate their nuclear programs. Tillerson revealed how nations can still succeed without the use of nuclear weapons. These examples are good to share for the purposes of prevention.

     His speech reminded me of my own personal experiences of being a mother, maybe my readers will be able to relate as well? As parents we talk to our children about a decision or a choice. We say why it is good or not good for them, sometimes these words are not received very well. The words are uttered because as we go through life, and our experience through the years, we learn. Our state of consciousness is higher. We decide to share what we know in order to prevent something from happening. Now I know that this example is very simple, as we relate it to that of nuclear power. But in a sense it exemplifies Tillerson's remarks. He revealed the cost that the USA's own use of Nuclear weapons and the destruction it caused. As stated earlier he also mentioned the countries who decided not to eliminate nuclear programs.

     It is in the US best interest to safe guard our own nuclear power for the protection of America and allies. Should their be any attacks. An attack from any side should be seen at the utmost last resort. However, nations who continue to show off their nuclear weapons to simple agitate or provoke other nations need to be dealt with. These remarks to world leaders offer examples of past history, success stories, as well as an argument that is framed for a responsible use and protection. America has the power, force, and military might, but this does not mean that they decide to show off, or use these to agitate and cause tension for the world, and world populations.

     For the purposes of a peaceful prosperous future we have to think about this carefully, because nuclear weapons, once they are destroyed pose a threat to the environment, because of their toxicity. I also commend the remarks of the High Security Council - United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs. As we have learned that the Nuclear program in Iran and also the Iran deal was implemented by Hillary Clinton. She also funded for the creation of ISIS and terror networks. However, it is important to remain in a dialogue, to obtain diplomacy through this dialogue, the last thing that the world needs is another issue of North Korea.  

     These issues need to be addressed now. We hear of all the investments that are taking place for the purposes of development, growth, and prosperity. We hear of all the investment for the purposes of education. These are positive initiatives and discussions. These developments must be safe guarded from all who seek to destroy. Which can truly happen through the lens of world solidarity.

​Dedication: The words of this being are dedicated to all peace - loving nations, and to those who may seek to join peace - loving nations. May there always be love and peace. My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :) 

​These thoughts were originally hand written on September 22nd, 2017.
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​Related Readings:
​​A Vision: United. 
​A Step Back.

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect. 

     The truth is the other day I was out shopping with my daughter. I love to see new trends, fashion and looks. I am particularly inspired with all of the floral designs, design, and fabrics that we have seen over the summer. I love fabric. I love design. Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love design and pattern. 

     However, I learned that color can be associated with coded messages, which made me feel anger and even sadness towards this color. I still feel this way sometimes. But truly don't want to loose this sense of love for color, love, quench, and desire for life. Color can be associated with hidden codes or messages. These can create both negative and positive affect. As I walk and view the fabrics, I began to once again appreciate the beauty of the Earth, the colours, flowers, leaves, trees. The vibrancy, natural elements, and design. I wondered that these colourful elements are beautiful - What have they done to me? They are sweet and innocent. Similarly, it is a genuine hope I have, that children also learn to love color. All colors as a force for the positive.

     Color or fabric can be or are used for diplomacy and cultural diplomacy. We see examples of these when leaders wear garments to in-act diplomacy. However, a person who cares for his or her survival is not going to place the color of cloth as a high priority. We can also think about this thought and relate it to the President Trump's shirt topic. President Trump's shirts have indeed been produced from foreign nations. Many will use this point to connect it with his stance on immigration or trade.

     But we have to be hopeful and specific to remind ourselves that President Trump is not anti - trade. He want's reciprocal trade relations. Reciprocity is the pinnacle of building effective relationships. Sometimes a nation does the ultimate good, but does not feel appreciated for efforts. This can be disheartening. However, we must always remember that God is the ultimate appreciator. +/- God Sees and he appreciates.  

    With regards to immigration or the DACA program we hope that congress will act to find effective solutions. Families should be allowed to stay together. America must not stop dreaming. America must keep their doors open safely, to allow others to dream with the United States of America. The American Dream! :)

​Dedication: The words of this human being are dedicated to all beings. May there always be love. Sending Love & Kindness! :) 

These thoughts were originally hand - written on September 20th, 2017. 
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Related Reading: 
​A Vision: United. 

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

     The truth is that I was taking the time to reflect upon my previous thoughts, with regards to supporting President Trump's idea of America First. I wrote that I do support this idea and also why I do. I also wrote about ideas that need more thought such as the US/Mexico border wall, and the DACA program. I mentioned that it is wise to take a step to invest in one's own country, every nation does this without any scrutiny, so why would this be any different for America? 

     A step back does not necessarily mean that this is literally a step back in time. A step back can also mean a step forward. We can take the example of an artist who desires to create a piece of art through a medium: pastels, paints, etcetera. Sometimes whilst the artist is creating  the art from a close distance, he / she will decide to take a step back to view the art. A step back could even mean going for a walk, taking a break, and then coming back to view the creation. This process allows for clarity. Also viewing the work from a distance allows the artist to see the work from varying angles, to allow for adjustments, measurements, and to make decisions about the artistic process.  This process of going back, allows the artist to understand what the work needs to begin again, to complete the work.

     In this sense we can see that even though there are steps taken back, these were created to allow us to move forward. This example could be transferred to the student who is writing a paper, a business organization that is re-visiting goals for planing and development. So here we can see that adjusting goals, planning for the purposes of enhancing and strengthening a nation should not be seen as a stranger or fear provoking, but as a mechanism to reflect, re-new, and to understand what needs to happen in order to advance, and achieve the goals of a nation.

Dedication: These thoughts are dedicated to all human beings, as we ourselves take the time to step back and reflect, lets us pray for our human family, the accrual of losses from the Mexico Earthquake. My thoughts to share with love & kindness. 

Notes: These thoughts were originally hand - written on September 20th, 2017. All opinions expressed are my own. Image 1 - Web Link 

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

United Nations
     The truth is that the United Nations Summit is taking place in New York. I remember walking past the building where the meetings take place whilst I was walking in New York. I remember seeing the flags of nations waving. These flags reminded me of the wonderful opportunity that leaders of nations have with this summit. An opportunity to have their voices heard, meet and greet, think of ways to improve the United Nations Councils, and also the initiatives. As with any organization new processes have to be thought about and developed. Strategies for implementation have to be thought of strategically, as well as the short - term and long - term goals of the organization. These thoughts reflect what the current Secretary General António Manuel de Oliveira Guterres said during his Facebook live Q & A, which took place on Sunday. It is easy to think of ideas. Implementation and to make others understand the vision takes effort, commitment from organizations, and countries. 

America First
     Whilst countries seek to work together for the purposes of global goals, President Trump will be introducing his idea of America First. I actually do support this idea because a country is only strong enough to support others, if they themselves are strong. For example: We can look at this point from the level of the individual. If you yourself are strong and healthy, only then can you begin to think of contributing for the health, wealth, and success of others. The same can be thought of for a country. Every nation wants to take care of the interests of the people within their country, this can be said of for any nation. So I don't understand why leaders of other countries, oppositional forces, or even media are critical of this point. Isn't that what a leader is supposed to do? Take care of their people, the growth, prosperity, health, wealth of their nation? This is not to say that there should not be trade relationships, because there should be. But if President Trump, his administration and advisors feel that America needs to take a step to re-focus and re-strenghthen, then I think that this is wise to do so. 

DACA
     With regards to the recent DACA announcement, I do believe that there needs to be a proper solution in place. If America has allowed individuals into a country through this program, it is for a reason. Member are obviously contributing to society. If this portion of the population is cut - off, America seeks to loose contributing members to the economy. So rather than cut-off or get rid of the program, there must be an effective solution. Families must be allowed to stay together, and not torn apart. If any one is critical of this point, and was once an Obama supporter, it should also be known that he himself said that there needs to be an effective solution, or permanent long - term measures put in place for the success of this  program. I think that a nation does not loose anything if there are contributing members to the economy, and they themselves have a safe place to stay. Why not provide these individuals with a concrete solution, allow them to stay, and enhance the program as well?

The Wall
     Also when we discuss the Mexico / US wall, I am still firm on my stance that a wall is not an answer. It's like a cut and paste job. It won't reduce crime or the drug problem along the borders. Often many of the people that are fleeing their homes to arrive in America, are escaping brutal circumstance, or even poverty. Also why will immigrants who are already settled in America want to pay for a wall that is going to restrict their fellow country men / women? There is much to think about.

​     It is easy to build walls or buildings. It is much more difficult to create societal shifts, to erase or reduce a problem. Again I urge leaders of both nations Mexico, and America to have dialogue about this topic. What if the wall was built to combat crime or the drug problem on both sides, but also to be promoted as a tourist attraction as well? Something to think about. We have to remember that Mexico and America are trading partners, this relationship must be preserved. 

Conclusion
     To conclude my thoughts, we can say that to look after your own nations interests are in the best interests of any nation. This should not mean that trading relationships will cease to exist. We live in a world where inter-connectedness cannot be ignored. If anything we must learn through the teachings of Mother Nature and Human Nature.

     Is it not enough to see the damages that are taking place through natural disasters? Is it not enough that we are seeing the humanitarian crisis, and the production of endless refugees? If anything we need to allow leaders to lead through a common vision, and also to look after the interests of their nation. We need to tackle the real issues, and not worry about what someone is wearing, or where it was from. The World, our Earth is far too important. 

​Dedication: The words this human being are dedicated to all human beings. May there always be love. Sending love & kindness! :) 

​Notes: These thoughts were originally hand written on September 19th, 2017. All opinions expressed are my own.
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Related Readings:
The Path To Peace
The Path To Peace II
Reflection: 9/11 
​Is Peace Possible?  ​

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect. 

     The truth is that I was thinking about my previous thoughts with regards to the questions that I had surrounding the events of 9/11. I continue to question, ponder, and wonder why these terrorist events took place. This year marked the 16th anniversary since the attacks happened. We have seen the devastations on all fronts, from the perspectives of the victims, and also the accused attackers, to the American People, and also to the people of Iraq. I don't want to repeat myself, but for the ease of reading, I probably will have to repeat a few points. 

     I know that if I took myself at the place of 9/11 today in these shoes, at this exact moment in time of the attacks, I probably would not have survived. This judgement is based upon my reactions to Hurricane Harvey, Irma, and to see the devastations first hand that took place in Houston. I am still trying very hard to cope with my own emotional response, and also trying my best to stay strong. How does one forget the hurts and injuries of the past? I don't think that we ever do forget, but we simply learn to find ways of coping, and simply living. 

     I do also think that we have to try to heal from the wounds. We cannot blame those who are living peacefully, contributing to the American economy, because they are Muslim. I do see hope of healing, especially when we saw interfaith ceremonies to mark 9/11. The ceremonies were solemn, peaceful and also brought about the yearning of asking, and wondering why this happened?

     This yearning was somewhat settled when I saw how New -  Yorkers also remember this day. With the performance of serving. Engaging in public works, and acts of service. This is a great idea because when we begin to do, to contribute we feel a sense of worthiness. We can't ever replace the service members that paid the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11, we can continue to honor them with kind pro-active acts. Whilst we honor these memories, we must as a nation be mindful not to enable a fear provoking collective psyche. That is the last thing that these remembrances should enact, but the truth is that they can, because Islamaphobia is very real. So with services, remembrances, public acts, we must also think at the level of inclusion. How are these including all members of a contributing society?

     9/11 has taken place, societal shifts have taken place. America is a nation that embraces all faiths, yet is bound to have security measures in place for the purposes of Homeland Security. Inevitably the security of people within a nation has to also be protected. America and Israel are very close allies. Israel is known as the Jewish state. It is also important to remember that America is closely tied to the Catholic Church in communion with Pope Francis. I mention this point particularly because of my interest of a peaceful and prosperous world. If America is closely linked to Israel, then America as the world leader has a duty to negotiate a peaceful resolution for the Israeli's and Palestinian's who have been at war day in, and day out. 

     We see bloodshed, poverty, and war that takes place everyday. These events seem to be somewhat ignored, because in essence that is violence everywhere. We see strife taking place with natural and humanitarian disasters from East to West, North to South. Yet, I write these words in association with my call to world leaders in my last thought post, where I called for a renewal and re-dedication to the vision for peace. 

     I am neither pro - Palestinian, or Pro - Israeli, but I am pro - peace. Also as someone who has pledged allegiance to the American flag, I also have to think about American interests, relationships, as well as our contribution to world peace. There is much potential for peace, this also means that many other nations work for this alongside efforts with the USA. 

     Nations must try to begin to heal with each other. Similar to that of 9/11 that took place in America. The innocent children, they don't understand, they don't know what all the fighting represents, only to learn the hate, violence at a young age. They then begin to normalize this , and carry on to contribute to the cycle of violence and war. As I conclude these thoughts, I once again think about the vision for peace. How can peace be possible when a vision is not aligned, or nations are fragmenting? For a vision to truly evolve into that of the tangible, it has to be embraced.

     Writer's Note:
Please note that I have not been publishing my thoughts consistently, simply because I am still trying to cope, remain strong after witnessing the devastations of Hurricane Harvey. Thank you all for continuing to read my thoughts, words of support, and your contributions to healing through the natural disasters. 

Dedication: My thoughts remain with Houston, Texas, please stay strong for me. And to all human beings, may there always be love. Sending love & kindness. 

​Notes: These thoughts were originally hand - written on September 15th 2017.
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Related Reading:
The Path To Peace
The Path To Peace II
Reflection: 9/11 

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect. 

     The truth is that yesterday was the 16th anniversary of the September 11th 2001 terrorist attacks, 9/11. As I looked at the images of the destructions that took place, I thought about if I took myself at this present moment in time, to the day that the actual events took place. I wonder: would I have survived? I question this particularly because of my own reactions to witness the destructions of hurricane Harvey, and also how this disaster has affected communities. I also wondered and continue to question why this attack happened? With all the questions, wonder, and reactions, I also wondered if peace was or is possible.

       I think that September 11th, 2001 has left a scar upon a nation, or even was a turning point for the world. Whilst the American people and the entire nation have fought through, re-built, and have remained strong, the memories, loss, and grievance are not forgotten. I too bear this wound. Similar to that of Hurricane Harvey. The people of Houston, surrounding area, and Texas are strong. I have no doubt that they will re-build and remain strong. However, the long-term effects, or the psychological damages still have to be determined. Will there be memorials? Will there be remembrances? Even though we are strong, and we do have hope, there has been injury, loss to land and human life. 

    I think of these injuries, losses, and terrorist attacks and wonder if peace is possible? Is the vision of a world that strives to work together for the purposes of peace and prosperity possible?
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     I do see glimmers of hope within America itself because of the re-building and uniting. We also saw interfaith communities, including Muslims gathered to commemorate 9/11. These might be small acts, but it is these simple small acts that add, to try to change or improve relations within a nation. These could eventually be transferred at the international level. 

     If countries or even groups within a nation want to work together to pursue a vision of peace and prosperity, then we must be able to think how we can have discussions where there might be conflicting views, but still be able to have a conversation. If anyone is serious about the vision of peace and prosperity, then it is also important to have conversations of difference, yet still carry the vision of peace as a type of binding, so that mutual interests allow for a continued, and not a
dis-continued conversational space. 

     As I take a moment to once again think about injuries such as terrorist attacks, natural disasters, humanitarian crisis, we have to remember that we have reached a point where there is suffering, death, and destruction on all fronts. And with this thought I urge human kind and world leaders to once again think about humanity. In fighting for survival, we are simply destroying. There is no more important time than now, to once again think about the vision for peace.​

Dedication: The words of this being are dedicated to all beings. As we take a moment to reflect on suffering and injuries, we must also re-dedicate to the vision for peace and prosperity. My thoughts to share with love & kindness. 

Notes: These thoughts were originally hand - written on September 12th, 2017.
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